"Apple is aware that some third-parties claim that their digital media players are able to sync with Apple software. However, Apple does not provide support for, or test for compatibility with, non-Apple digital media players and, because software changes over time, newer versions of Apple's iTunes software may no longer provide syncing functionality with non-Apple digital media players," the bulletin reads.

Releasing a tiny update to iTunes would banish the Pre's iTunes sync, destroying one of the more appealing features of the new smartphone. It appears imminent that Apple will release this update. After all, why would Apple cater to a competitor?

Though it makes sense, it's a little sad. iTunes is clearly the king of the heap when it comes to online music distribution. Apple should rest on its laurels, knowing it has vanquished most of its musical competition and allow third-party smartphones to get in on the party. The sync could be eliminated, and Apple could then charge Palm for the capability as a kind of passive-aggressive gift. Other companies would surely pay for the feature, as everybody wants to steal a slice of the iPhone's tremendous success as a phone and MP3 player.

And hey, at least it's not a lawsuit.

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